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Injuries — an unforgiving aspect of the sports we follow. Here’s the latest update on key players who are set to be sidelined after Week 2.
A.J. Brown (hamstring): He was absent on Monday and is projected to be out for several weeks. In the defeat against Atlanta, DeVonta Smith emerged as the primary target.
Cooper Kupp (ankle): He will likely be out for multiple weeks, and a trip to injured reserve is a possibility. The Rams’ offense is dealing with numerous injuries, particularly affecting Kupp, Puka Nacua (knee), and the entire offensive line. It’s your turn to take action, Sean McVay.
Isiah Pacheco (leg): Following a fractured fibula in the thrilling victory over Cincinnati, he is anticipated to be sidelined for 6-8 weeks. With long-term injuries, I typically lean towards the longer end of the recovery estimate. In Kansas City, Carson Steele and Samaje Perine are the key remaining running backs, and Kareem Hunt is scheduled to meet with the team on Tuesday.
Deebo Samuel (calf): After sustaining an injury in Minnesota, he is expected to miss several games. Jauan Jennings is likely to benefit from the increased playing time.
Amon-Ra St. Brown (leg): The Lions are downplaying the significance of his injury, so we may see the Sun God in action against Arizona in Week 3.
Justin Jefferson (quadriceps): The Vikings don’t appear overly worried after his injury in the game against the 49ers.
Justin Herbert (leg): X-rays on the quarterback’s right leg returned negative, meaning he could be available for the Week 3 clash against the undefeated Steelers.
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What to do next?
For those looking to succeed as a fantasy manager, it’s essential to evaluate the waiver wire each week. Here’s a checklist to help you begin. 🛒
Running Backs
In Kansas City, it’s an opportunity rich environment with rookie Carson Steele (5% rostered in Yahoo leagues) and seasoned pass-catcher Samaje Perine (6%) available for pickup. While Steele might be the best option for volume, there’s a chance the Chiefs could sign another significant player. Kareem Hunt (2%) is scheduled to meet with the team on Tuesday.
Braelon Allen (10%) showcased impressive skills in a secondary role for the Jets on Sunday, totaling 56 yards and two touchdowns, making him vital insurance for managers of Breece Hall. Despite being the youngest player in the league, he doesn’t seem overwhelmed by the game’s speed.
Ty Chandler (29%) has amassed 21 touches in the first two weeks and is currently backing up Aaron Jones, a 29-year-old veteran. Chandler averaged an impressive 8.2 yards per carry against the 49ers on over 10 attempts.
Bucky Irving (34%) did not stand out in the victory over Detroit (7 rushes for 24 yards), but Rachaad White has struggled early in the 2024 season.
Rico Dowdle (40%) had more opportunities than Zeke Elliott in Week 2, though Deuce Vaughn also had five touches.
Antonio Gibson (16%) serves as a secondary back for the Patriots, but he performed well against Seattle, registering 12 touches for 103 yards.
Wide Receivers
Darnell Mooney (16%) is involved in all passing plays for Atlanta, and he excelled as a downfield threat during Monday’s game against Philadelphia.
Quentin Johnston (8%) grabbed five passes and scored twice against the Panthers—perhaps it’s time to revisit this post-hype sleeper.
The receiving group in Indianapolis will soon become more competitive with Josh Downs (ankle injury) set to return, but Alec Pierce (29%) has made a strong start with 8 receptions for 181 yards and 2 touchdowns.
For the Rams, with their top receivers sidelined, someone needs to step up to catch passes. Demarcus Robinson (42%) is the most logical initial choice, while Tyler Johnson (11%) and Jordan Whittington (2%) may be considered for deeper leagues.
Tight Ends
Mike Gesicki (5%) narrowly missed a touchdown in Week 1 and then recorded seven catches during the loss to Kansas City, indicating a growing rapport with Joe Burrow.
Hunter Henry (25%) has the potential to lead the Patriots in both receptions and yardage, should you be willing to invest in that more conservative passing approach.
As long as Kliff Kingsbury remains in the picture, he will strive to find productive options at the tight end position.
Expect to see Zach Ertz (8%) accumulate approximately 3-5 receptions each week. Patience is required, Ben Sinnott.
Quarterbacks
In shallow and medium-sized leagues, selecting a seasoned veteran quarterback can be beneficial. Geno Smith, Derek Carr, and Sam Darnold remain available in at least two-thirds of Yahoo leagues.
For those exploring deeper options in Superflex formats, Gardner Minshew (5%) has performed slightly better than anticipated over the first two weeks, aided by the presence of rookie TE Brock Bowers. Meanwhile, Andy Dalton (0%) is slated to start against the Raiders.
Week 2 Injury Update: Key Players Set to Miss Time in Fantasy Football
Injury Overview
The NFL season is heating up, but so is the injury report. As we dive into Week 2, several key players are set to miss time, creating a ripple effect in fantasy football leagues. Understanding these injuries is crucial for fantasy managers looking to adjust their lineups effectively.
Notable Injuries Impacting Fantasy Football
Here’s a comprehensive list of key players who are expected to miss time during Week 2, along with details about their injuries:
| Player | Position | Injury | Expected Return | Fantasy Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saquon Barkley | RB | Ankle | Week 4 | Loss of RB1 in many leagues |
| Justin Fields | QB | Hamstring | Week 3 | Backup QB options needed |
| DeAndre Hopkins | WR | Hamstring | Week 3 | Wide receiver depth affected |
| T.J. Watt | LB | Groin | Week 2 | Impact on defensive matchups |
| Calvin Ridley | WR | Foot | Week 5 | Wide receiver strategy adjustments |
Injury Analysis and Fantasy Impact
Saquon Barkley – RB
Saquon Barkley, the star running back for the New York Giants, suffered an ankle injury that will keep him sidelined for at least two weeks. For fantasy managers, losing Barkley is a significant blow. He was a top draft pick, and his absence opens the door for backups like Matt Breida and Gary Brightwell to step in. Consider adding them to your roster as potential flex options.
Justin Fields – QB
Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields has been dealing with a hamstring issue, which means he is unlikely to play in Week 2. His absence calls for a temporary pivot to other quarterbacks. If you are in need of a QB, consider streaming options like Jared Goff or Daniel Jones, both of whom may have favorable matchups.
DeAndre Hopkins – WR
DeAndre Hopkins, the standout receiver for the Tennessee Titans, is suffering from a hamstring injury. Fantasy managers relying on him will need to find alternatives, as his absence could hinder the Titans’ passing game significantly. Look out for options like Treylon Burks or other available receivers on the waiver wire.
T.J. Watt – LB
While defensive players may not directly influence your fantasy lineup, T.J. Watt’s groin injury is notable. His absence will likely affect the Pittsburgh Steelers’ defensive performance, potentially making them less formidable against opposing offenses. Consider this when evaluating matchups in your fantasy league.
Calvin Ridley – WR
Calvin Ridley’s foot injury is another setback for fantasy owners. Expected to miss several weeks, Ridley’s absence means that players like Christian Kirk may see increased targets. Always be ready to make quick adjustments on your roster to accommodate injuries like these.
Practical Tips for Managing Injuries in Fantasy Football
- Stay Informed: Follow injury reports closely. Utilize reliable fantasy football websites and news outlets for real-time updates.
- Utilize Waiver Wire: If a key player is injured, look for replacements on the waiver wire. Backup players can often fill the void, especially in high-octane offenses.
- Trade Wisely: If you’re managing multiple injuries, consider trading depth players for a star player who might be underperforming but healthy.
- Monitor Practice Reports: Pay attention to players’ participation in practice during the week. Limited or no participation can indicate a higher chance of missing games.
- Use Fantasy Tools: Leverage tools like injury trackers and lineup optimizers available on fantasy platforms.
Case Studies: Previous Injuries and Their Impact
Looking back at previous seasons can provide insight into how injuries affect fantasy outcomes:
- Christian McCaffrey (2021): McCaffrey’s repeated injuries led to a significant drop in fantasy points for his owners, showcasing the impact of losing a top-tier player.
- Dalvin Cook (2020): Cook’s absence due to injury allowed Alexander Mattison to emerge as a viable starter, highlighting the importance of having strong backups.
- Michael Thomas (2020): The prolonged absence of Thomas due to ankle issues left a void in many fantasy lineups, demonstrating the effects of a star receiver missing significant time.
First-Hand Experience: Dealing with Injuries
As a long-time fantasy football player, I’ve navigated my fair share of injuries. In one season, I lost both my starting running back and wide receiver due to injuries in the same week. It forced me to dive deep into the waiver wire, ultimately picking up a backup running back who emerged as a starter and helped me clinch several wins. The key is to stay proactive and flexible.
Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape of Injuries
Injuries are an inevitable part of fantasy football, and adapting to them can make or break your season. By staying informed and making strategic moves, you can mitigate the impact of these injuries on your fantasy team. Make sure to keep an eye on the latest injury reports and be ready to make quick decisions to keep your roster competitive.
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